SoccerSouls – Network Of Football Writershttp://soccersouls.com
Soccersouls is a football website from India. We cover European and Indian leagues.Fri, 09 Dec 2016 07:55:03 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.6.1Why A Premier League Switch To West Ham Would Be The Best For This Manchester United Starhttp://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/premier-league-switch-west-ham-best-manchester-united-star/
http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/premier-league-switch-west-ham-best-manchester-united-star/#commentsFri, 09 Dec 2016 06:51:48 +0000http://soccersouls.com/?p=39191Reports have emerged that West Ham United are considering a loan move for Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini in January. Slaven Bilic has identified Fellaini as a viable target although his performances have not been up to the mark so far in the season. It is understood that Fellaini is not looking for a move away […]

Reports have emerged that West Ham United are considering a loan move for Manchester United midfielder Marouane Fellaini in January. Slaven Bilic has identified Fellaini as a viable target although his performances have not been up to the mark so far in the season.

It is understood that Fellaini is not looking for a move away from Old Trafford at this stage of his career, but a loan move away could be beneficial for all parties concerned.

West Ham have endured a difficult start to the season and have secured just 12 points in 14 league games and are hovering just above relegation zone. Despite bringing in a host of new players in the summer, Bilic has been unable to produce results at the East London club. However, club co-chairman David Sullivan has backed the manager to turn things around.

West Ham’s problems seem to lie in central midfield. It is evident that the work-rate put in by the central midfield pair of Mark Noble and Cheikhou Kouyate is not up to the mark. Noble, in particular, has not been as effective as he was last season and the defence is suffering as a result.

Their resources in this department are not too exorbitant either. Havard Nordtveit is not exactly the ideal back-up for a club that aspires to qualify for Europe. Indeed, the addition of Fellaini to the ranks would bring in the competition among the players.

Also, Fellaini himself is an established player having played in the Premier League for years. He had earlier thrived for Everton playing in the central-midfield role, using his physique and stature to maximum potential. However, at United he has not been able to replicate his form.

In fact, he has come under the ire of the Old Trafford faithful on numerous occasions. Most recently, in United’s 1-1 draw at Goodison Park, Jose Mourinho brought Fellaini in hoping to see out the one-goal advantage. Unfortunately, the Belgian effected a penalty within two minutes of coming on the field. Leighton Baines made no mistake in levelling the scores as United fans called for Fellaini’s head.

United, themselves, are looking to cut down their squad size. They already have the likes of Paul Pogba, Ander Herrera, Micheal Carrick, Bastian Schweinsteiger and Morgan Schneiderlein to play in the role and even the fans would prefer anyone other than the towering Belgian on the pitch.

And again, West Ham’s problems lie in the centre of the park and they are doing something right in winning back the ball. However, they have been caught on counter-attacks on numerous occasions. A player like Fellaini could be used to break down such attacks and also as a presence in the opposition box when the team is in search of a goal.

The 29-year-old is well-suited for a long-ball style of play, something that has been prominent in Bilic’s side. For Fellaini’s sake, a move away from Old Trafford could not have come at a better time. A loan deal at West Ham is probably what he needs to resurrect his falling career graph.

]]>http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/premier-league-switch-west-ham-best-manchester-united-star/feed/1Where Is This Forgotten Manchester United Striker Who Is The Club’s Youngest Goalscorer?http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/forgotten-manchester-united-striker-clubs-youngest-goalscorer/
http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/forgotten-manchester-united-striker-clubs-youngest-goalscorer/#respondFri, 09 Dec 2016 06:00:24 +0000http://soccersouls.com/?p=39204April 2009. The title race between Liverpool and United was heating up. Manchester United vs Aston Villa, at the Old Trafford. The Red Devils trailing 2-1 and Cristiano Ronaldo equalises. The score at two all with 10 minutes left to play. A draw would have left Sir Alex Ferguson’s side one point behind league leaders […]

April 2009. The title race between Liverpool and United was heating up. Manchester United vs Aston Villa, at the Old Trafford. The Red Devils trailing 2-1 and Cristiano Ronaldo equalises. The score at two all with 10 minutes left to play. A draw would have left Sir Alex Ferguson’s side one point behind league leaders Liverpool.

17-year old Federico Macheda, who was making his debut, had come on to replace Nani, with the score at 2-1. Coming on the back of a hat-trick for United Reserves the previous week, he was looking to make an impact for the senior side. And with just minutes left to play, the Italian received the ball with his back to goal just inside the Villa area, he turned and hit a sublime curling shot into the far corner. “Machedaaaaaaa” screamed an excited Martin Tyler on air. The teenager, with a moment of magic, had put United on top of the league table.

The dream start continued for Macheda, as just 46 seconds after replacing Dimitar Berbatov in his second substitute appearance against Sunderland, he put United 2-1 up. Two crucial goals in his first two appearances. Stuff of dreams.

The Mancunians eventually went on to win the league that season, finishing four points clear of Liverpool and consequently equaling their rivals with 18 league titles.

The Italian’s debut, that turned the title race on its head, made sure that huge things were expected from him. And with Carlos Tevez and Cristiano Ronaldo leaving Old Trafford the subsequent season, he was touted to be the next star to take United forward.

Unfortunately, with Wayne Rooney’s rise as United’s main man, Dimitar Berbatov’s superb goalscoring streak and the emergence of Javier Hernandez meant he had to look elsewhere for regular first team football, which saw him move back to his native Italy, joining Sampdoria in January 2011. He returned to his parent club at the end of the season, after an unfruitful spell with the Italian side, scoring just once in 14 appearances.

He was again loaned out in January next season, to fellow Premier League team Queens Park Rangers where an injury early into his spell meant his season was over. Another season came, another loan spell in January ensued, this time to German side Vfb Stuttgart. 18 appearances, no goals.

A career that began with such great promise had dovetailed into a string of failures following unsuccessful loan spells. With Sir Alex announcing his retirement after the 2012-13 season, David Moyes took over at United and made clear from the beginning that Macheda was not a part of his plans. Two more loan spells followed at Doncaster Rovers, where he managed to score thrice in 15 appearances over the two spells.

In January 2014, he was sent out to Birmingham City for the final six months of his contract, in what would turn out be his final loan spell as a United player. He scored 10 times for Birmingham in 18 appearances, helping them to stave off relegation.

His time with United came to an end with the youngster only managing 36 appearances for the first team across six seasons, finding the net only five times. His memorable injury time winner against Aston Villa was as good as it got for the former Lazio youth in a United shirt.

Released by the Red Devils, he was signed for Cardiff City in 2014 for free by former United reserves manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. He managed to score 8 goals for the Welsh club in the 2014-15 season. But having made no starts in the 2015-16 season, and a handful of substitute appearances, he was farmed out to Nottingham Forest for another not so successful loan spell.

Upon his return, his contract was terminated by mutual agreement ahead of the 2016-17 season. After being a free agent for months, Macheda on the 5th of December, was announced as a player of Serie B side Novara Calcio with an 18-month contract.

The 25-year old, after bursting on the football scene with a moment of brilliance at one of the biggest stages in club football, is now looking to revive himself in Italy’s second tier. How time changes. But with age on his side, the former United player can still make a comeback and resurrect his faltering career.

]]>http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/forgotten-manchester-united-striker-clubs-youngest-goalscorer/feed/0Brilliant Mkhitaryan – The Best And The Worst Rated Manchester United Players vs Zoryahttp://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/brilliant-mkhitaryan-best-worst-rated-manchester-united-players-vs-zorya/
http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/brilliant-mkhitaryan-best-worst-rated-manchester-united-players-vs-zorya/#respondFri, 09 Dec 2016 05:55:30 +0000http://soccersouls.com/?p=39233The Red Devils secured qualifications for the next rounds of the Europa League after earning a 2-nil victory against Zorya at Ukraine. Despite a poor pitch condition that had threatened to postpone the game earlier on, and a frustrating first half, Manchester United still managed to bag 2 goals via Mkhitaryan and Ibrahimovic. The win […]

The Red Devils secured qualifications for the next rounds of the Europa League after earning a 2-nil victory against Zorya at Ukraine.

Despite a poor pitch condition that had threatened to postpone the game earlier on, and a frustrating first half, Manchester United still managed to bag 2 goals via Mkhitaryan and Ibrahimovic.

The win saw them finish as runners-up in Group A behind Fenerbahçe, and Mourinho will now hope to get favourable draws in the subsequent knockout stages.

Here is how his men fared against the Ukrainian side on a cold evening.

Romero

Made some fine saves and was at alert on the few occasions the hosts threatened United’s goal.

Rating : 8/10

Young

Had a fine performance on the right side of the defence as he kept Zorya’s attackers well in check.

Also made few attacking dashes towards the hosts’ half.

Rating : 7/10

Bailly

Returned to action for the first time in many weeks following a knock and made vital blocks, interceptions and clearances, showing no sign of rustiness. Had an attempt on goal following a scissors kick.

Was lucky to escape a needless 2nd booking seconds to the end of the game.

Rating : 8/10

Rojo

A solid and assuring performance from the Argentine who dispossessed Karavayev to allow Mkhitaryan race towards the hosts’ box to open the scoring in the 2nd half.

Rating : 8/10

Blind

Lacked pace as usual and couldn’t help to contribute to the attack on the left wing.

Looked out of position and lacking in match fitness.

Rating : 7/10

Pogba

A lot of showboating and extravagant display from the £89 million – man.

Laid in a fine assist for Zlatan’s goal and did attempt some long-range efforts himself.

Rating : 8/10

Rooney

Except for a shot Zorya’s goalie had to make a crucial save for, the skipper didn’t do anything noteworthy, with his passes too weak and his speed too slow.

Could have been as a result of the weather and little match fitness.

Rating : 7/10

Herrera

Controlled the midfield, was influential in linking with the frontline well and also did pretty good to shield his defenders.

Rating : 8/10

Mkhitaryan

His first goal in a Manchester United Jersey just had to be pure class.

He opened the scoring after United’s struggles with a trademark run few metres away from the centre circle, fooling the defenders into tracking Rooney, and nutmegging one before sending the goalkeeper the wrong way to finish calmly.

Rating : 9/10

Ibrahimovic

Scored the decisive goal with a cool finish having been let through by Pogba’s key pass with only the goalie to beat.

Rating : 8/10

Mata

Pedestrian display that saw him rightly withdrawn in the 2nd half.

Perhaps the cold weather and the poor pitch condition combined to limit his performance.

Rating : 6/10

SUBSTITUTES

Lingard

Came close to getting United’s 2nd upon his entrance and looked to inject urgency into the attack.

Rating : 7/10

Fellaini

Hit a header off target with an opportunity and kept the hosts from creating much in midfield upon his introduction.

]]>http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/brilliant-mkhitaryan-best-worst-rated-manchester-united-players-vs-zorya/feed/0Top 5 Cristiano Ronaldo Free-Kicks Everhttp://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/top-5-cristiano-ronaldo-free-kicks-ever/
http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/top-5-cristiano-ronaldo-free-kicks-ever/#respondThu, 08 Dec 2016 23:00:49 +0000http://soccersouls.com/?p=39187As football fans of the current generation, each and every one of us should be proud to be able to witness some of the best players to have ever played this beautiful game. The likes of Lionel Messi, Paul Pogba, Neymar Jr and Antoine Griezmann are among the best players in the world at the […]

As football fans of the current generation, each and every one of us should be proud to be able to witness some of the best players to have ever played this beautiful game. The likes of Lionel Messi, Paul Pogba, Neymar Jr and Antoine Griezmann are among the best players in the world at the moment but one player who is only getting better the older he gets is the Portuguese star, Cristiano Ronaldo. Helping his Real Madrid side to a Champions League title and his national side to the EURO 16 title, Ronaldo has had a memorable 2016 and he will be hoping to finish it off with some good performances in the last few games of the year. He is known for his skill and ability with the ball on the field while his dead ball ability is next to a very few in the history of the game. He has – over the years – produced some brilliant free-kick goals from impossible distances and angles and is easily one of the best free-kick taker the game has ever seen. On that note, here are his top 5 free-kicks ever in his time in England and Spain:

Real Madrid vs APOEL (Champions League; 201):

In what will be remembered as one of his best free-kicks ever, Cristiano Ronaldo pulled out an absolute stunner from an improbable angle in an 8-2 victory against minnows APOEL. He picked up a free kick outside the box one the left-side but Ronaldo decided to curl it past the far post with the keeper having no chance to get to it. Though inconsequential, it is one of the best free-kick goals ever.

Bayern Munich vs Real Madrid (Champions League; 2014):

In a European journey that ended with a title, the 10th one, the Spanish outfit were drawn with German giants Bayern Munich but made light work of them winning the home leg 1-0 and dominating the second 3-0 even before 80 minutes. With the game and the tie almost done and dusted, Ronaldo picked up a free-kick just outside the box, placed the ball with purpose and did something very few would even try to. He calmly snuck the ball under the feet of a jumping German ball to beat Manuel Neuer all ends up in one of the best free-kicks ever.

Arsenal vs Manchester United (Champions League; 2009):

Probably the most important goal on the list, Cristiano Ronaldo thumped a 40-yeard free-kick past Manuel Almunia at the Emirates beating the keeper with sheer pace and swerve. It was at a distance which would have seen most players attempt a cross but Ronaldo, who already scored a goal earlier in the game, found the back of the net with precision and helped Manchester United into the Champions League final that season 4-2 on aggregate.

Manchester United vs Europe XI (Friendly; 2007):

Playing against the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Andrea Pirlo in the other team, Cristiano Ronaldo produced yet another master class on the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Rome. He took on Santiago Canizares from 30-years out in a free-kick that will not be forgotten easily. He tricked the shot-stopper into shuffling to one end, while smartly bending the ball into the top corner at the other end with hawk-like precision before jumping into celebration. The match will surely be remembered for a long time for this goal.

Manchester United vs Portsmouth (Premier League; 2008):

Pace, accuracy, curve and anything else that is needed from a free-kick can be seen in this master-class from Cristiano Ronaldo, which till date, stands as one of the best goals he has ever scored. Though the free-kick was not from too far away, the Portuguese hero got the ball to swerve slightly to the left and then into the right top corner leaving David James on Portsmouth’s goal bewildered. Ronaldo is still capable of producing such hits, making him one of the best players to ever play the game.

]]>http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/top-5-cristiano-ronaldo-free-kicks-ever/feed/0Five Things That Make This £300,000-a-week Manchester United Star A Club Legendhttp://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/five-things-make-300000-week-manchester-united-star-club-legend/
http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/five-things-make-300000-week-manchester-united-star-club-legend/#respondThu, 08 Dec 2016 22:30:23 +0000http://soccersouls.com/?p=39221There is nobody in the world of football who manages to divide opinions as much as Wayne Rooney. The Englishman has been no doubt one of the best players to have graced the Theatre of Dreams, but there are many who feel he has failed to fulfill his potential. But the fact remains that after […]

There is nobody in the world of football who manages to divide opinions as much as Wayne Rooney. The Englishman has been no doubt one of the best players to have graced the Theatre of Dreams, but there are many who feel he has failed to fulfill his potential.

But the fact remains that after 12 years at the club, Rooney has given his everything for the Manchester United shirt and deserves to go down as a legend for the club.

There have been rough patches along the way, there have been plenty of misdemeanours as well, the two transfer requests come to mind. But irrespective of everything, Rooney – who earns £300,000 a week – has always given his 100 percent each time he has been called upon and has made every Mancunian proud.

Let’s take a look at five things that make the United and England captain a legend in his own right:

#1 All competitions at club level conquered

Wayne Rooney, with Manchester United, has won every title, every competition at the European club level, except for the Europa League.

The United captain has five Premier League trophies, all of which he has played a key part in. The Champions League victory in 2008 in Moscow will always a remain highlight of his career. He also has won the League Cup twice in 2005-06 and 2009-10, while he managed to get his hands on the much eluded FA Cup trophy last season as United’s captain under Louis Van Gaal.

And add to that four Community Shields and one FIFA Club World Cup, it makes for a trophy cabinet that would make many envious.

#2 On the cusp of becoming United’s leading goalscorer

Wayne Rooney is only one goal away from equaling Sir Bobby Charlton’s record of 249 goals for Manchester United. Having already overtaken the United legend’s total for the England National Team, the current United and England skipper, in his 536 appearances, has managed to score a whopping 248 goals and with two more goals, he will soon become United’s leading goalscorer ever.

From his brilliant start against Fenerbahce, when he announced himself to the world in his very first Champions League game by scoring a stunning hat-trick in his debut at Old Trafford, to the famous volley against derby rivals Manchester City, he has scored plenty of important and breathtaking goals for United.

And when he reaches this huge milestone, which should not be very far given his sudden upturn in form after a poor start to the season, he will surely etch his name in the annals of history at United.

#3 Always a Team Player

Never to shy away from a responsibility, Wayne Rooney has always stepped up for the team’s cause. From playing as a second fiddle to Ruud van Nistelrooy in his early days at United, to being under the shadows of Cristiano Ronaldo, and then leading United’s attack through the late 2000’s and the early part of this decade, Wayne Rooney has done everything that has been asked of him.

He even started playing in a deeper midfield role over the past few seasons to make up for his loss in pace as age caught up with him, while this season again he has shown his versatility, playing in a No. 10 role, or out on the wings while leading the line at times under Mourinho.

He may have had a period where he seemed unsettled at the club, but he always has put the team’s needs ahead of his personal preferences. A true team man.

#4 The Never Dying Spirit

Throughout his glittering career, Wayne Rooney has never had it easy. Always under the microscope, always under constant criticism, he has had to endure a tough time. He has always had a point to prove to his detractors who seem to be around the corner at every moment.

But he has never backed down from the fight. Each time it seems that the burden or the pressure is getting to him, he bounces back and proves he is a class act.

Injuries seemed to have slowed him down, and his age caught up to him, but never one to give up, the former Evertonian reinvented himself as a midfielder. There have been barren spells, goal droughts throughout his career but he has always emerged as a stronger player from each bad spell.

Even this season, the critics were having a field day, owing to his poor start, but once again with his performances, Rooney has shown his value to this team. He may not be the player he once was, but the attitude he brings, the passion, the fire in him is inspiring, to say the least.

#5 Longevity

It’s easy to forget how long Rooney has been around at Old Trafford. Having signed in 2004 as an 18-year old, for the highest ever fee paid for a player under 20 years at that time, ‘Wazza’ has played with the likes of Roy Keane, Edwin van der Sar and Paul Scholes, to players such as Anthony Martial, Jesse Lingard and Marcus Rashford.

In that time, he has seen his former teammates and Manchester United legends such as Ole Gunnar Solksjaer, Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville, Roy Keane, et al., retire from the game and eventually went into management.

Since his arrival in 2005, Rooney has played with numerous strikers. Ruud Van Nistelrooy, Cristiano Ronaldo, Dimitar Berbatov, Robin van Persie, Radamel Falcao, the list just goes on. Summer signing Zlatan Ibrahimović went on to say that, “The perfect partner for a striker is Wayne Rooney. He works not only for himself but for the striker and the whole team,” describing his partner in crime.

Rooney has continued breaking the goalscoring charts and having represented the club for over 500 games and scored almost 250 goals, he is nothing but a United legend.

]]>http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/five-things-make-300000-week-manchester-united-star-club-legend/feed/0Should Liverpool Sign This Manchester City Outcast After Recent Meltdown?http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/liverpool-sign-manchester-city-outcast-recent-meltdown/
http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/liverpool-sign-manchester-city-outcast-recent-meltdown/#commentsThu, 08 Dec 2016 21:30:15 +0000http://soccersouls.com/?p=39188Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool were left embarrassed at the Dean Court on Sunday as 3 goals in the last 15 minutes from the home side saw the Reds without even a point. The game would have had a mental effect on the squad and the manager was quick to change things up as he travelled […]

Jurgen Klopp and Liverpool were left embarrassed at the Dean Court on Sunday as 3 goals in the last 15 minutes from the home side saw the Reds without even a point. The game would have had a mental effect on the squad and the manager was quick to change things up as he travelled to the Camp Nou to watch Barcelona in action and also for a warm weather training session. The manager will know that his team has what it takes to bounce back but there is wide unrest among the fans of the club on the social media as to whether first choice shot-stopper Loris Karius is the right man to lead the team. This has seen the fans begging to bring Hart to Anfield.

The England international is currently plying his trade on loan in Italy with Torino taking full advantage of his quality in between the sticks. Though he is prone to errors every now and then, Hart is one of the most experienced shot stoppers in the domestic circuit in England and is the first choice goalkeeper for Gareth Southgate for the national side. He is strong, smart and commanding and is a player that would walk into the first team for many sides. Liverpool were linked with a move for him in the summer, but Klopp had already bought Karius by then and decided to snub Hart but with the German keeper showing some nerves, Klopp may well be back in the market for the Manchester City man in January. But do Liverpool actually need another goalkeeper?

Simon Mignolet and his antics in between the sticks for more than a couple of years now at Anfield has seen the manager shove him to the bench and he is being used only in the cup competitions, where he has actually shown loads of improvement. Mignolet is a nervous player who is prone to unforced errors which is quite frustrating.

He is easily one of the best shot-stoppers in the world at the moment but his handling of the ball and his distribution are far from exemplary. He is a decent second choice keeper for a Premier League club but a few Premier League clubs are already monitoring his situation and may move for him in January. And if that happens, Liverpool will take Joe Hart in the blink of an eye.

Karius is currently in his first season in the Premier League and is still getting to know some new grounds in the country. He had a few nervous games before but at Dean Court, he was at fault for the winner at the death and was also generally ineffective. But at 23, he has loads of time to get into the groove and Jurgen Klopp is adamant that he is the first choice at the club at the moment. But if Mignolet is sold and Joe Hart bought, Karius can no longer sit on his laurels and may even be replaced as the first choice. And as a matter of fact, it might also help the young shot-stopper learn the trades of the domestic league.

Hart is a seasoned campaigner and is sure to win you some points in a 38-game domestic league but he is also at times caught out of position and will frustrate the managers. But at 29, he has gathered loads of experience and might return to England as a far superior player and with Manchester City and not many clubs interested, Liverpool may well price away a top class player to good effect in January.

]]>http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/liverpool-sign-manchester-city-outcast-recent-meltdown/feed/3Are The New Manchester City And Liverpool Signings Are As Bad As They Seem?http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/new-manchester-city-liverpool-signings-bad-seem/
http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/new-manchester-city-liverpool-signings-bad-seem/#respondThu, 08 Dec 2016 21:00:45 +0000http://soccersouls.com/?p=39194Settling into the Premier League immediately and hitting the ground running upon arriving the top flight isn’t a very common phenomenon you often get to associate with new EPL arrivals. And this just doesn’t apply to outfield players alone, even goalies have struggled to adapt to the demands of the league at times. De Gea […]

Settling into the Premier League immediately and hitting the ground running upon arriving the top flight isn’t a very common phenomenon you often get to associate with new EPL arrivals.

And this just doesn’t apply to outfield players alone, even goalies have struggled to adapt to the demands of the league at times. De Gea had difficulties settling into life at Old Trafford when he made the switch from Vicente Calderon seasons ago.

This trouble was highlighted again this weekend when Manchester City goalie Claudio Bravo, and his Liverpool counterpart Loris Karius, both summer signings of their respective clubs, performed below expectations at their duty posts, costing their clubs 3 points in the process.

Despite both clubs taking the leads by half-time, they still eventually lost and their goalies should take a large chunk of the blame. With such woeful outings, and given how they haven’t looked utterly convincing thus far, does this means Bravo and Karius are really as poor as they have seemed?

The Chilean was brought in as a direct replacement for Joe Hart in the close-season, with Pep preferring him to the England international due to his ball-playing abilities.

Indeed, the former Barcelona custodian has done exactly what he was mainly recruited to do. Contribute to the play and start its buildup from the back. Thus far, the 33-year-old has an impressive 73.3% pass accuracy.

However, in terms of really keeping the goals out, Bravo hasn’t been impressive just enough. On Saturday against Chelsea, having remained out of the line with City swarming around the Blues’ half, the counter attack leading to Willian’s goal caught him aware, as he hadn’t gotten back well into the proper position to have a chance of saving the strike.

Even the fact that he has saved 66.7% of shots on target directed at him, doesn’t help hide that something might actually be wrong somewhere with Bravo’s goalkeeping (emphasis on the word “goal”).

Manchester City have faced the 2nd-lowest shots per game (8.6) this season, yet they have managed to ship 15 goals. This means for every 8 shots Guardiola’s defence has come against, they have conceded a goal.

Liverpool also have a very similar problem at the back. They are the lowest for shots faced per game (7.9) thus far, and they have somehow let in a goal for every 6.2 shots faced as a result of conceding 18 goals in 14 games.

Are these 2 goalies indeed that poor? Or are there any explanations to this? And no, it’s not about their defenders alone. Karius’ mistakes allowed Liverpool concede The Cherries’ last 2 goals on Saturday when he should have better. And the German’s save rate is 65.5% – the 10th best.

The young Germany international was seen as an upgrade on Mignolet, with his ability to help the team press further high on the pitch, amongst other abilities the reason Klopp went for his signature.

However, the numbers – which never lie, prove Karius is far from better than the Belgian, and that Bravo is probably even worse in terms of making the crucial saves than Hart. The 2 former number 1’s might have been error-prone to a fault, but they weren’t this poor.

Karius and Bravo might end up doing the exact opposite of what they were recruited for in the long-run. They have cost their sides 3 points already, and if this continues, City and Liverpool are very likely to miss out on the title because of these 2.

]]>http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/new-manchester-city-liverpool-signings-bad-seem/feed/0Here’s Why Carlos Bacca Is Not The Answer For Arsenal’s Striking Problemshttp://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/heres-carlos-bacca-not-answer-arsenals-striking-problems/
http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/heres-carlos-bacca-not-answer-arsenals-striking-problems/#respondThu, 08 Dec 2016 21:00:16 +0000http://soccersouls.com/?p=39182There have been rumours linking Arsenal with AC Milan striker Carlos Bacca. It’s not the first time that Arsene Wenger’s side has been linked with a move for a striker as the transfer window approaches. However, probably for the first time, Arsenal do not really need to buy a new striker. Although Wenger brought in […]

There have been rumours linking Arsenal with AC Milan striker Carlos Bacca. It’s not the first time that Arsene Wenger’s side has been linked with a move for a striker as the transfer window approaches. However, probably for the first time, Arsenal do not really need to buy a new striker.

Although Wenger brought in Spanish striker Lucas Perez on the deadline day in the summer transfer window, the French boss has mainly used Alexis Sanchez in the central forward position. And Sanchez has thrived in the role.

Earlier in the weekend, Sanchez showed how he has made the position his own when he scored a hat-trick in Arsenal’s 5-1 win over West Ham United. Wenger has already made it clear that the Chilean is his first-choice striker, even when Olivier Giroud is available.

Carlos Bacca himself is a brilliant forward and boasts an impressive scoring record. He has averaged close to one goal in every other match in his career and even though he is 30 years old, he is a bargain buy at £20m.

Nonetheless, Bacca does not exactly fit into Arsenal’s current scheme of things. Sanchez is having one of the most productive seasons in his career in terms of goals scored. The 27-year-old is the forward who drops deep to build the play.

Bacca is more of a traditional striker, good in aerial duels and a clinical finisher inside the box. However, Wenger already has Giroud at his disposal for this role, who has already proved how effective a ‘plan-B’ he can be against defensive teams.

Then, there is the huge squad that Wenger has which includes numerous options in the front-line. £17m signing Perez has started only one league game so far and if Arsenal buys Bacca in January, it would only mean one thing – Perez was indeed a panic buy.

And then there is Danny Welbeck, of course. The English striker’s career has been plagued by injuries but he is good enough to play in any of the Premier League sides. He is nearing a return from injury and will be the fourth option up front. Even Alex Iwobi can play as a striker if required. When was the last time that Wenger had so many strikers to choose from?

Buying Bacca only makes sense if one of the strikers was to leave in the winter. And if anyone was to leave it would most probably be Giroud, who is reportedly unhappy at having to spend most of the matches on the bench. However, he has insisted that he was keen on fighting for his place at least until the end of the season rather than leave the club.

If Sanchez keeps up his scoring spree in December, if Giroud decides to stay back at the club and takes his chances, if Lucas Perez fulfils Wenger’s expectations of him, then who would need Bacca to solve the problems? Why do you need to buy new strikers when the answer lies within your squad, Mr Wenger?

]]>http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/heres-carlos-bacca-not-answer-arsenals-striking-problems/feed/0Why Signing This Premier League And Celtic Stars Would Mean Business Well Done For Liverpoolhttp://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/signing-premier-league-celtic-stars-mean-business-well-done-liverpool/
http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/signing-premier-league-celtic-stars-mean-business-well-done-liverpool/#respondThu, 08 Dec 2016 20:30:25 +0000http://soccersouls.com/?p=39210Liverpool are enjoying a great start to their current campaign. The first full season under Jürgen Klopp has started on a very positive note for the Reds, as they sit third in the Premier League and have made it to the last four of the EFL Cup as well. It has been a true team […]

Liverpool are enjoying a great start to their current campaign. The first full season under Jürgen Klopp has started on a very positive note for the Reds, as they sit third in the Premier League and have made it to the last four of the EFL Cup as well.

It has been a true team performance by the Merseysiders, with players all around chipping in with key contributions. Nathaniel Clyne has been brilliant at right-back, James Milner has slotted in an unfamiliar role at left-back seamlessly, Jordan Henderson has led the team excellently from the middle of the park, while Philippe Coutinho and Roberto Firmino have looked lethal upfront.

The new faces that Klopp brought in, in the summer, have had a huge part to play as well. Sadio Mane provides a different threat altogether in the attack, adding a new dimension to the Reds going forward. Joel Matip has been a rock at the heart of the defence.

While there has been a plethora of positives, there are some areas of concern for Liverpool heading into the January transfer window. Coutinho was injured against Sunderland and faces a few weeks out on the sidelines. Adam Lallana, who is enjoying his best season in Liverpool colours, is also struggling for fitness while Mane will also be departing in January to represent his country at the Africa Cup of Nations. And with Danny Ings ruled out for the season and Daniel Sturridge’s continued links with a move away, the attacking department will be left short-handed.

And the backline, in the absence of Matip has looked very suspect. Dejan Lovren has had a mixed season so far, and another summer signing, Ragnar Klavan, has had a stop-start time due to injuries. Klopp has had to rely on Brazilian Lucas Leiva to provide cover at centre-back, which is not ideal, especially when the club is aiming for the title.

So, it is natural that Liverpool have been linked with various players ahead of the January window. While it is imperative that they sign a forward player, who will guarantee them an added attacking threat and goals in the absence of Mane and Coutinho, they will also need to strengthen their backline as well.

One player who has been heavily linked with a move to Anfield is Celtic’s Moussa Dembele. The 20-year old, who was chased by a host of clubs in the summer, has had a great start to life in Scotland. He has scored 17 goals in 29 appearances for the Scottish champions, which include three strikes in the six Champions League games he has played.

His pace, ability to run behind defenders and his direct running make him an attractive prospect for the Reds, while it has also been revealed in the past that Klopp tried to sign him back in his Dortmund days. He has shown great technical ability and composure in front of goal for his age and can prove to be a good piece of business for Klopp and Liverpool if they manage to snap him up in the upcoming window.

Another player who is rumoured to be of major interest for the Reds is Virgil van Dijk. The Southampton defender has had a stellar season so far in defence and has been one of the best defenders in the league this term. The Dutch international signed a six-year deal at the end of last season and Saints boss Claude Puel is desperate to keep him.

Southampton have kept five clean sheets this season, third highest in the Premier League and have conceded only 15 times, fifth best in the league. And van Dijk has been the main reason for the Saints’ solidity and steely nature at the back. With his abilities on the ball and his solid defending, the former Celtic man fits the bill perfectly for Klopp. The German craves for a ball-playing defender, someone like a Mats Hummels from his days as Dortmund boss, and van Dijk is of the same mould.

With him in the backline, alongside Joel Matip, the Liverpool defence will surely be much harder to break down which could be very crucial as they continue their hunt for the Premier League trophy.

If Klopp and Liverpool manage to sign these two targets in the January transfer window, they will go a long way in strengthening and adding more quality to their squad, which will definitely provide a stronger platform for them to challenge for the Premier League. It will be no doubt mean, business well done for the Reds.

]]>http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/signing-premier-league-celtic-stars-mean-business-well-done-liverpool/feed/0Rodgers To Ring Changes? Predicted 4-2-3-1 Celtic Line-Up To Face Partick Thistlehttp://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/rodgers-ring-changes-predicted-4-2-3-1-celtic-line-face-partick-thistle/
http://soccersouls.com/2016/12/09/rodgers-ring-changes-predicted-4-2-3-1-celtic-line-face-partick-thistle/#respondThu, 08 Dec 2016 20:15:59 +0000http://soccersouls.com/?p=39227Fresh from a morale-boosting 1-1 draw against Manchester City in the Champions League, Celtic take on Partick Thistle at Firhill Stadium on Friday night as they look to keep on course for a historic unbeaten domestic treble. Celtic are comfortably leading the Scottish Premiership table with an 8 point lead over second-placed Rangers with a […]

Fresh from a morale-boosting 1-1 draw against Manchester City in the Champions League, Celtic take on Partick Thistle at Firhill Stadium on Friday night as they look to keep on course for a historic unbeaten domestic treble.

Celtic are comfortably leading the Scottish Premiership table with an 8 point lead over second-placed Rangers with a further 3 games in hand. Although they were pushed to the brink last week, Celtic underlined their supremacy as Scottish champions with a thrilling come-from-behind 4-3 win at Motherwell. Partick Thistle, on the other hand, were held to a draw away at Hamilton and firmly find themselves fighting to avoid relegation.

Team News:

Brendan Rodgers is expected to ring in the changes for this clash as the Hoops enter a busy festive schedule. Left-winger James Forrest, who went off with a hamstring injury against Manchester City, is a major injury concern. Scott Sinclair and Kieran Tierney remain sidelined with long-term injuries.

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Craig Gordon

Craig Gordon has firmly established himself to be Brendan Rodgers’ No1 between the sticks this season. Will be disappointed with the goal conceded on Tuesday night, but the Scottish custodian seems to be finding his rhythm with each passing start.

Mikael Lustig

Passed the difficult test to contain Sane and Clichy on Tuesday night with flying colours, but should expect a comparatively comfortable night against a struggling Partick side.

Kolo Toure

Expectedly looked shaky last weekend at Motherwell without much competitive action since his move to Scotland. Was directly responsible for the two first-half goals Celtic conceded. Perfect opponents for the veteran to get some minutes under the belt, with all due respect to the Jags.

Jozo Simunovic

Except being outclassed for pace by Kelechi Iheanacho one or two times, Jozo Simunovic produced another fine performance for the Hoops, his failed summer move to Torino is well behind him.

Cristian Gamboa

Kieran Tierney’s unfortunate injury meant that Brendan Rodgers had to rely upon the previously outcast Emiliano Izaguirre for filling in the left-back spot. Cristian Gamboa, the summer signing from West Brom, could be handed another opportunity to prove his credentials.

Liam Henderson

Captain Scott Brown has been an influential figure for Celtic in the centre of midfield this season and could be a candidate for a rest for this game. Liam Henderson, the youngster who enjoyed massive success on loan at Hibernian last season, could be given an opportunity to stake a claim for more frequent starting appearances.

Stuart Armstrong

A standout performer in Celtic’s dramatic win at Motherwell last week, Stuart Armstrong is yet another player who seems to be realising his potential under Brendan Rodgers this season. With his directness while in possession, Scott Brown seems to have found a perfect ally in a two-man midfield combination functioning like a charm so far.

Patrick Roberts

After a phenomenal return to his parent club on Tuesday night, it is imperative that Patrick Roberts keeps the momentum and consistency going so that he can truly prove he can make it even when back at Manchester City.

Tom Rogic

As Manchester City found out, Tom Rogic can find pockets of space even between the tightest of defensive backlines. The Aussie has been an absolute revelation for the Hoops this season, a nuisance to mark and contain.

Callum McGregor

James Forrest limped off with a hamstring injury at the Etihad Stadium and is unlikely to be risked ahead of an important festive schedule. Callum McGregor impressed from the bench against Motherwell last week and could be handed a start on the right.

Leigh Griffiths

Should start up front at Partick to allow Moussa Dembele a much-deserved break. The Scottish international has seen his game time limited due to Dembele’s rising success as a striker so far this season and will certainly have a point to prove this weekend.